Political leaders in Iraq continue to prioritize resolving the salary crisis between Erbil and Baghdad. Key figures from the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) gathered for a high-level meeting in the Pirmam area. President Masoud Barzani joined the session, which focused on financial rights, strained federal relations, and the urgent need for cooperation.
Tensions between Erbil and Baghdad have deepened recently, pushing both Kurdish parties to coordinate closely. Over the weekend, KDP and PUK leaders held separate internal meetings to outline strategies. They met again today to finalize a joint response to the ongoing problems, particularly the repeated delays in public sector salaries.
According to a senior figure from the KDP, the delegation included Nechirvan Barzani, Masrour Barzani, and several political bureau members. On the other side, PUK President Bafel Talabani led a team of senior officials. Together, the two parties sought to close ranks and prepare a unified stance for future negotiations with the federal government.
Fazil Mirani, the head of the KDP’s political bureau, emphasized the importance of the gathering. He noted that resolving the salary crisis remains a central goal. Mirani also confirmed that President Barzani personally attended to support the ongoing dialogue.
Both parties now prepare to pressure Baghdad further. KDP and PUK leaders have agreed to pursue peaceful, legal measures if the Iraqi government continues to withhold financial entitlements. They stressed the urgency of cooperation and warned of broader consequences if no resolution emerges soon.
Throughout the talks, the salary crisis featured prominently. Leaders from both sides expressed frustration over the federal government’s ongoing delays. They argued that withholding salaries hurts not just public employees but also the broader economy across the Kurdistan Region. Resolving the salary crisis will require serious political engagement.
At the same time, the two parties discussed electoral coordination, federal responsibilities, and the political future of the Kurdistan Region. They also considered how best to restore trust between Erbil and Baghdad, which remains a priority for Kurdish leadership.
The KDP and PUK pledged to continue working together. Both groups emphasized their commitment to protecting the interests of the Kurdish people. Moreover, they recognized the urgent need for solutions to ensure regular salary distribution and political stability.